Finney Injury Law - February 2024

Take a look at our February newsletter!

1600 S. BRENTWOOD BLVD., SUITE 220 • ST. LOUIS, MO 63144 // FINNEYINJURYLAW.COM // 314-293-4222 // FEBRUARY 2024

That has always stuck with me. That is why we try hard cases. That is why, even when we lose, we win in the long run. We may suffer short-term setbacks, but we cannot be beat. Every case, even the losing ones, provide significant experience for us. We can build on that. The opposing side sees that. They see we can move and prepare files and won’t wilt under pressure. Even when we lose, they pay more when they see our resiliency. They believe what we say because our walk matches our talk. I started to see that pay off this past year. We started getting serious offers on cases we were geared up to litigate. This was the goal when we started trying cases over 10 years ago. Show them we can do it. They can’t beat us if we never quit. Then, to see it start to happen ... well, I don’t want to jinx it. But it was like a proof of concept feeling. Like, this works. It can and does work. So now we need to continue it. Try the cases that need to be tried. Settle the ones that deserve to be settled. Pursue the ones we believe in. That was our plan in the past, that is the plan this year. Ships are not designed to be stored in the harbor. They should be out sailing the sea. That is how I view our firm. We aren’t made to settle every case all the time. We aren’t built to be a mass firm or settlement mill facing crushing overheads. We’re made to sail the seas. To fight when we need to, but always use the elements to our advantage. We Get Results WE HAVE A WELL-KNOWN TRACK RECORD

February is usually a tough month. It’s cold, it’s dark, and spring seems far away. But I am looking forward to this February. In February, we should be trying one or two big cases. There is nothing more exciting than trying cases. It is nerve-wracking but also fun. It’s where the action is, where the rubber meets the road, so to speak. Settling cases is nice. Seeing the culmination of your team’s efforts pay off with a good settlement is a great feeling. What most people miss in our settlements, however, is all the prior cases and work that went into getting that specific result. We don’t settle a case for $1,000,000 if we didn’t try a case 10 years ago for $10,000. We don’t get a $10 million or $20 million verdict if we aren’t trying the $25,000 case eight years ago. Most people don’t see the compounding effect of what we do. Our track record has allowed us to show insurance companies that we are capable, and we will try cases. That we have and will produce results most of the time. That is the ultimate value enhancer for all of our clients. It reminds me of something I heard an East Coast injury lawyer say one time when he had a client complain about his fee. The attorney had seen this type of case before and moved efficiently to resolve it for a good number. He knew exactly what to do and how to handle the case. The client felt that the fee was a lot for what seemed like a small amount of work. The attorney remarked something along the lines of: My fee isn’t built on the time for just this case; it’s built on the 15 years of experience learning how to do it right and the other side knowing I can do it well.

I hope you all spend this month with the people you love. I plan to remind my spouse how much she means to me and our family. Without her, our ship sinks, literally. Talk to you next month.

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Shaking Up Your Routine Personal changes in your day and routine might seem strange, but soon, you’ll find a new rhythm and perspective, breathing fresh energy into your daily life. Simple acts, like picking up a new hobby, can revitalize your mental and emotional landscape. Cultivating Resilience and Flexibility Navigating change successfully is all about balance. Being resilient means you meet challenges head-on, while flexibility helps you adapt and find creative solutions. Imagine yourself as a mature, healthy tree, swaying with the winds of change without being uprooted. Embracing the Process Remember, evolving with change is a journey, not a sprint. It’s normal to need time to adjust to new surroundings or situations. Be kind to yourself, seek support when necessary, and savor each step of this phase of life. After all, mastering the art of change is one of life’s most valuable skills. As you face change and the need to evolve, consider it a doorway to new experiences, not an insurmountable hurdle. It truly is a chance to grow, learn, and enjoy life from a fresh vantage point. So, take a deep breath and dive into the adventure like a champ!

Evolving With Grace How to Thrive in Times of Change

The world today changes constantly, sometimes very quickly, and each twist and turn brings a new adventure! As we journey through life, especially in our golden years, change remains a familiar companion, offering a blend of new experiences and difficult situations. Here’s how to navigate this ebb and flow with confidence.

How to Protect Yourself From Slips and Falls SLIPPERY SLOPES

February is a month of meteorological roulette — you might wake up to a frosty morning, only to shed your coat by the afternoon as temperatures soar to 70 degrees. This unpredictability isn’t just a wardrobe challenge; it poses risks for slips and falls. A sudden drop in temperature can turn a wet sidewalk into an ice rink in minutes. Businesses must monitor weather conditions and take proactive steps. Stores and restaurants should have bright, easily noticeable warning signs in potentially slick areas. These signs make a big difference in preventing accidents. However, when rain comes unexpectedly, businesses may not have time to get their warning signs placed before people start tracking the wet conditions indoors, underlining the importance of personal caution. The Best Footwear for Slippery Surfaces On a personal level, there are several strategies you can adopt to safeguard

yourself. One of the simplest and most effective is to choose the proper footwear for the conditions. Footwear with non- slip soles, like rubber, can provide stability. Water-resistant materials will keep your feet dry and reduce the risk of slipping. Safe Driving in Unpredictable Weather Rainy and icy weather increases the risk of slips and falls, leading to hazardous driving conditions. Traffic jams and accidents are more common, transforming your usual routes into potential bottlenecks. Allocate extra time for travel on bad weather days. Adopt a defensive driving approach: slow down, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and avoid abrupt maneuvers. Remember, patience and vigilance are your best allies on the road. Be Aware of Changing Conditions Being prepared also includes being aware of your surroundings. Be cautious of black ice, which can be very dangerous because it’s often invisible. Take small

steps, avoid distractions like using your phone while walking, and use handrails wherever available. These simple adjustments to your habits will reduce the risk of a fall and ensure your safety. If you or a loved one ever find yourself in an unfortunate situation due to a slip or fall, know that help is just a call away at 314-293-4222. We’re here to help you stand firm, even when the ground beneath you is uncertain.

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The Bravery of Tank the German Shepherd A HEROIC HOUND’S STORY

In a remarkable display of courage and instinct, a German shepherd named Tank recently became an overnight sensation. His heroic act, captured in a TikTok video with over 45 million views, showcased the extraordinary bravery of our canine companions. Tank’s story begins on an ordinary day that quickly turned extraordinary when he saved his owner’s 6-year-old son from a dog attack in November 2022. As the young boy played in the front yard of his South Florida home, a neighboring dog, unrestrained and aggressive, charged toward him. In an instant, Tank lept into action. The dog pushed the boy to the ground and then placed himself between the boy and the oncoming threat, averting a possible tragedy. Tank’s quick thinking and fearless stance saved him and demonstrated the innate protective nature of German shepherds. German shepherds are a breed recognized by the American Kennel Club for their loyalty and protectiveness, making them the first choice for families seeking a dependable guardian. Like PUFF PASTRY BERRY HEARTS

many German shepherds, Tank possesses a unique blend of courage, intelligence, and loyalty. These dogs are not just pets; they are devoted protectors and family members willing to put themselves in harm’s way for their loved ones. Tank’s story is more than a viral sensation; it’s a testament to the deep bond between dogs and humans. His actions remind us of dogs’ invaluable role in our lives, offering unconditional love and unwavering protection when needed.

The boy’s mom wrote on social media that Tank is their “highly skilled professional home security officer.”

“This is Tank & no, he is not professionally trained. He’s just a man with killer instincts, who loves a good chew toy,” she wrote after posting a video of Tank playing with his favorite toy. In today’s world, Tank stands out as a true hero. As we watch Tank’s story, we are reminded of the extraordinary capabilities of our four-legged friends and their profound impact on our lives. It’s a reminder that sometimes, heroes don’t wear capes; they have four paws and a tail.

YOUR REFERRALS MEAN THE WORLD TO US There is no greater compliment we can receive than a client telling a friend or loved one about us. If you know somebody who has been injured and needs an attorney who will fight on their behalf and give their case the attention it deserves, please pass along this newsletter and have them call us at 314-293-4222. Thank you for spreading the word about Finney Injury Law.

Inspired by Weelicious.com

INGREDIENTS

• 1 package frozen puff pastry, defrosted • 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp powdered sugar • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (or berries of your choice)

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Unfold the puff pastry and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut into heart shapes. 2. On a baking sheet, place puff pastry hearts and bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown. 3. In a standing mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes. Add the powdered sugar and beat on high for 30 more seconds or until thick and fluffy. 4. Remove hearts from the oven and allow to cool completely. Slice each heart in half between pastry layers to create 2 hearts. Top the bottom half with whipped cream and berries, and place the other half on top to form a sandwich.

Practicing in Missouri and Illinois

1600 S. BRENTWOOD BLVD. SUITE 220 • ST. LOUIS, MO 63144

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

FINNEYINJURYLAW.COM // 314-293-4222

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1

Getting Results Is the Culmination of Our Experience

2

Embrace Change, Enhance Life!

2

Tips for Treading Carefully

3

Meet Tank, a Canine Companion and Protector

3

Puff Pastry Berry Hearts

4

A Groundhog Tale

The tale of Groundhog Day in Missouri is full of folklore and changing customs. It is currently celebrated on Feb. 2 but was initially celebrated on Valentine’s Day in the Ozarks. As more people, many with varying cultural backgrounds, started moving into the area, they influenced the customs around the holiday. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), Groundhog Day evolved through a sometimes heated debate among residents of the Ozarks and newcomers. This beloved tradition centered around our furry forecasters — the groundhogs, also known as woodchucks — began to change during the 1900s and 1940s. The old-timers and the younger generation often found themselves at odds, which is likely a tale as old as time. They and the “furriners,” as they were called then, clashed with residents, and Groundhog Day became a contentious topic. The holiday is linked to the natural cycle of the rodents who retreat into hibernation in October. According to the lore, if the groundhog sees its shadow when reemerging, it would DISCOVER ITS UNIQUE HISTORY Missouri’s Groundhog Day Secrets

go back underground for six more weeks. If not, it emerges from hibernation, and people can begin plowing and readying the fields. Thus, in the 1930s, cloudy skies on Feb. 14 meant the old- timers started cultivating and planting fields. Meanwhile, the “outsiders” were settling in for another six weeks of winter if there were sunny skies on Feb. 2. While our culture has progressed beyond using groundhogs as a gauge for when to start planting, we still enjoy celebrating the holiday and the anticipated spring. Still, groundhogs play a vital role in our ecological systems. Their digging habits are instrumental in providing shelter for other animals like foxes, possums, rabbits, skunks, and weasels. The excavation also benefits the soil, enhancing aeration and water absorption, thus promoting healthier plant growth. However, they can also be a nuisance to gardeners and farmers because of their fondness for peas, beans, corn, and other garden crops. Even though there’s only one groundhog per burrow, they can wreak havoc on a garden. The MDC asks that anyone dealing with groundhog-related issues contact a pest control specialist familiar with state and federal laws to solve the problem responsibly and effectively. Groundhog Day reminds us of the balance we strive to maintain — respecting and coexisting with nature while adhering to the customs that make our Missouri community unique.

Practicing in Missouri and Illinois

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